Last Updated: November 2, 2023
Recent research from Age UK into internet use showed digital exclusion is a real problem for our elderly. However, there are lots of benefits to being online – one such benefit is online banking.
Choosing to bank online can make for a much swifter and easier way to manage your finances. However, it can feel like a bit of a learning curve when you first make the switch, particularly if you’re not too familiar with online spaces. From processing transactions at the click of a button to checking your account balance on the go, the benefits of managing your money digitally are numerous. So, to help you get started (and to simplify some of the tricky bits) we’ve put together a comprehensive, easy-to-follow beginner’s guide to online banking.
How to set up your online banking account
First, gather the information you need
There are a few details that you’re going to need to have to hand when it comes to creating your online banking account. Usually, these will be basic details like your account number and sort code, as well as some personal details, such as your full name, date of birth, and address. Just as you need to supply these details when you open a bank account in person, you’ll also need to supply these when you make the switch to online banking. This is so your bank can protect you from fraud, and confirm that you are who you say you are when setting up your online account.
If you’re ever in doubt about a detail that you’ve been asked to fill in online, it’s best to get in touch with your bank. You can usually do this by calling the number on the back of your card.
Next, create your login
It should be easy to find your bank’s website through a simple internet search, although you can always ask your bank for the correct address if you run into any problems. When you get onto the website, you may find that you’re prompted to download a mobile banking app, particularly if you’re signing up from your phone. Having access to your bank’s app allows you to check up on your accounts regularly, even when you’re on the move – but you can choose to forgo this step if you wish.
Once you’ve found your way onto your bank’s website or app, it’s usually pretty straightforward to navigate your way through the login creation process. The site will usually display options to “login” or “create an account” – follow these steps, filling in any details that you need to.
Lastly, take a look around
Once you’ve followed each of the steps to create a login on your bank’s website, you’re all set up and ready to navigate your new online banking portal. Take a look around to discover where your account information is located. Don’t be afraid to have a click around the different pages – this is the best way to familiarise yourself with your online account.
Things to remember
The internet can make banking tasks feel much more straightforward, but that doesn’t mean that it’s always safe. So, it’s important to take precautions and be mindful of any websites that you’re visiting, as well as any personal information that you’re giving away online. You’re going to want to make sure that you’re only accessing online banking through the bank’s verified app, or via the website address that they have supplied to you.
Making the transition to banking online may seem daunting at first, but in time, navigating your way around your online banking account becomes easier. Banks generally make their online spaces easy to understand and accessible for everyone, so once you’ve found your way onto the website, there’s not much that can go wrong. In fact, there’s plenty of new, helpful processes and information to discover.
Photo by Centre for Ageing Better on Unsplash
